Why DC Prep

DC Prep’s network of schools currently serves 1,300 students in preschool through 8th grade on four campuses in Wards 5 and 7. In Fall 2015, DC Prep will open a new Anacostia Elementary Campus in Ward 8. All DC Prep schools are free and open to any student in Washington, DC.

Student learning is at the heart of all we do. We have an unapologetic focus on academics with an intense learning environment including a longer school day, frequent homework, and focused academic intervention.

We believe in the power and joy of learning and that all students can excel.

We emphasize healthy social development and foster a positive learning environment where students are supported to develop strong study habits and to demonstrate the personal qualities of successful students and good citizens.

DC Prep effectively teaches social skill development grounded in a focus on challenging academics. DC Prep builds a strong school culture – social skills are consistently taught and reinforced across all grade levels and an unapologetic focus on academics balances joy in learning with urgency and rigor.

DC Prep fosters shared expectations and aspirations between home and school. Frequent informal and formal communication with families, including regular phone contact, quarterly conferences, etc., build trust and parent/teacher teamwork to achieve the best outcome for every student.

Families give DC Prep the strongest endorsement — ranking us a "great school" year in and year out. You will, too!

Interested in a Typical Day at DC Prep?

DC Prep's Benning Elementary Campus (BEC), a 2014 OSSE "Reward" School, is partnering with DC School Reform Now in its Virtual School Tours initiative designed to give families just like yours the ability to compare high-performing schools virtually. The BEC video series consists of footage showcasing a typical day in the campus community. Get to know BEC's Principal, Raymond Weeden, in the video below - and stay tuned for other featured videos in the coming months!